This is for our younger selves
For our daughters
For the women who paved the way before us
For the women who will continue to light the way after us
For our Soul Sisters
With freedom, books, flowers, and the moon, who could not be happy?
- Oscar Wilde
At Community Table, we are a vibrant community of women united by our commitment to connection, empowerment and support. We believe in the transformative power of sharing our stories, resources, and insights to inspire and uplift one another.
Grounded in the values of truth and self-expression, we strive to create an inclusive space where voices are heard and celebrated Through our collective wisdom and experiences, we aim to foster meaningful connections, ignite personal growth, and promote positive change in ourselves and the world around us.
With every article, story, and offering, we aim to uplift, inspire, and empower. This publication is not just for the community it is of the community, a reflection of the shared aspirations and dreams of those who walk this path together.
Mission
Quotes
Community Playlist
Connecting Moon & You
Beauty 2024
Burnout
Herbal Astrology
Mindfulness
ondaysicouldnotmove itwaswomen whocametowatermyfeet untiliwasstrongenough tostand itwaswomen whonourishedme backtolife sisters-rupikaur
Hi I’m Alexandra, a 47 year old mom of two beautiful girls. I am blessed to be a part of Community Table and be able to share this experience and develop new connections with you. I grew up in Philadelphia, but reside in New Jersey. I am an Xray Technologist and have been in the medical field for over 20 years. I enjoy helping others and seeing them smile. I am an Aquarius and see myself as a free spirited person who loves to be silly and make people laugh. A few fun facts about me are that I am an identical twin, love music, dancing, taking photos and food. I’m also passionate about traveling, been on 13 cruises and look forward to sharing my recent travel experiences with you.
You can find me on IG
@i am alexandra x
Hi I'm Alysia. I have a Bachelors degree in Sociology/ Anthropology and a background in early childhood education. During those years in the classroom, I found a love of building a bridge between home, school and resources for our students and their families.
I am now celebrating and entering my ninth year as a wife, homeowner and stay-athome mom We have four children and are one year into our homeschooling journey. These three relationships: wife, mother, and homeowner have called upon the most challenging yet rewarding times of growth for me. They are the reasons I am humbled daily and have committed to being a lifelong learner. They are my purpose! They are why I read more, grow more and am busy strengthening my faith and relationship with God.
I strongly believe empowered women speak the truth and I am excited to be a part of Community Table. We will create something really special here and my hope is to be of service to you all as we learn and grow together here at CT. You can count on me sharing relatable insights to parenthood, personal development, fav scriptures & quotes to live by, resources aplenty and of course my treasured book recommendations
Can't wait to connect and grow in our community!
♥Alysia
I'm Claire Julian, an Afro-Caribbean woman, yogini, traveler, writer, foodie and mother of a five year old who claims every day other day is “the best day ever ” , living in Harlem. I love movement, music, tropical climate, gathering with friends, storytelling & the sound of my daughter laughing at her own jokes. My professional experience includes extensive experience working in Human Resources and project management and I’m also a certified yoga teacher with experience teaching private clients and group classes. I'm passionate about building lasting connections and cultivating community with like minded individuals. My intention is to approach every experience in this life as a divine soul having a human experience
I launched Daisy Soul Child in 2020 during my spiritual awakening and I wrote a book “The Gift Is In My Wounds” which is about how my self-love journey began. I am a woman in recovery, Reiki Practitioner, writer and intuitive reader.
My dream is to one day have a storefront spiritual store by the beach! I am inspired by the moon, crystals and astrology. My passion today is to share with others how to trust your own intuition, and provide tools to help uncover your own magic.
I am excited to be a part of Community Table and we hope you share it with others. Hi,
Instagram: @daisy soulchild
Website link
Infinite Blessings! I would love to introduce myself, I'm Jessica. I also am known by my nickname Luna . I am a 34 year old mom of 2. I have my Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education and work as a preschool teacher. I own my own metaphysical shop online and I am devoted to lifelong spiritual healing and growth. I love God and walk with faith in my purpose. My life is a service to others .
My Big Three Zodiac Signs Are: Sun: Virgo Ascendant: Scorpio Moon: Leo www.lunalocaatlanta.com
Heyy, I’m Kayla, a fiercely loving mama on a path of growth and transformation, raising a bold 5-year-old. Beyond motherhood, I'm a visionary and dedicated community builder, weaving connections and fostering spaces where authentic expression is nurtured.
In 2014, I created the Vow to Be Fierce® movement as a love letter to myself during a time of deep reflection and desire for healing. VTBF has evolved into a sacred container of support and community for peeps who are over being the lone warrior and want to unite with others to elevate with a soft space to land.
In my work, I use my intuition with a gentle yet powerful approach, drawing on my diverse background in life coaching, energy healing, and experience in supporting my clients as they navigate their own paths of self-discovery and healing. Titles and roles feel limiting; I'm on a journey of evolution, shedding old skins and embracing the ever-unfolding path ahead.
I embrace every twist and turn with an open heart and a cup of coffee in hand. The beach and the cosmos is where I find comfort, inspiration, and deep sense of identity. My goal is to create a path to show my daughter that with courage and a fierce heart, living your dreams is possible.
I am deeply grateful and excited to join my fellow founding members on this journey to share Community Table with the world. Join us in spreading the important message of unity, support and & collective transformation.
Connectwithme
Instagram: @vowtobefierce
Vow To Be Fierce® Community Membership
My name is Kaymara Gayle, LCSW.
I was born in the serene countryside of St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, where I was nurtured by the wisdom of my grandmother, Hearthene.
Migration to Brooklyn, New York, brought both challenges and opportunities, shaping my resilience and authenticity. Born in Jamaica and raised by my grandmother, Hearthene, I learned the values of hard work and integrity. Migration to Brooklyn infused my life with new experiences, blending my Jamaican heritage with the vibrant tapestry of urban life
In Brooklyn, I embraced my unique blend of intelligence and authenticity, navigating life with confidence and sass. This blend, which I call "intella-rachet," became my guiding light through life's twists and turns.
Inspired by my experiences, I pursued a career in social work and psychotherapy, finding purpose in helping others heal and grow. Through empathy and resilience, I empower individuals to reclaim their strength and rewrite their stories.
As a mother, psychotherapist, and advocate, my journey is a testament to the transformative power of resilience and authenticity. From Jamaica to Brooklyn, I've embraced my roots, celebrated my uniqueness, and empowered others to do the same. With each step forward, I continue to learn, grow, and inspire positive change in the world.
I’m so grateful to be here, to share this space with women who want to empower themselves and others, women who meet each other where they are, and welcome one another with open arms.
I love to learn and am currently on a path of herbal studies, inspired by my Mom, both her love of gardening, and my desire to make things to help ease her discomfort. My goal is to share the knowledge I gain and to create offerings that heal, comfort, and make people feel more connected to themselves.
Hello! My name is Shavon, and I am a 36-year-old Aquarius residing in BK, NY, with my family of six. I am a special education teacher, passionate about working with children. Currently, I am finishing my MA in Early Childhood & Special Education. Beauty is my other passion, I am a pro-MUA and also run a makeup business People often ask me if I will quit my job as an MUA, but I won't because I love having the best of both worlds, being able to do two things that I genuinely love. I am excited to share amazing beauty tips, keep you up to date on all the hot new trending beauty products and looks. Additionally, I will offer some education tips and ideas to help all parents and caregivers with their little ones.
Whoever has gratitude will be given more, and he or she will have an abundance
-Rhonda Byrne
Embark on a journey of inspiration with our community-curated playlist, crafted to soothe your soul and ignite your spirit. This playlist includes personal faves from our founding members. Dive into a diverse selection of melodies and rhythms carefully chosen to uplift and empower. Whether you seek solace after a long day or a spark of creativity, let this collection of music be your companion.
Have you ever wondered why you may feel super productive on some days, and then others maybe super tired? It could be very possible those moods could depend on what zodiac sign the moon is in The complete moon cycle is about 28-29 days and it changes zodiac signs every 2.5 days.
For instance you may feel very inspired to start a new routine when the moon is in Virgo Or, you may find you are tired and need a nap when the moon is in Pisces I love the moon, and find there is so much magic in it Throughout my studying of the moon, I have been able to harness its energies in my everyday life.
Our moon sign is our inner world It is our intuition, our emotions and even where we keep them hidden. If you thought your sun sign was the key to finding who you are compatible with, it just might not be. Looking more into your moon sign will show you what you need to be fulfilled emotionally
Getting to know someone elses’ moon sign will also help you understand how they like to connect emotionally
My moon sign is in Gemini, and I like to express my emotions through writing I am a talker, and if it is something I am passionate about, I won’t shut up So, if you want to get more in tune with your intuition, look into your moon sign You can find it online with the many free birth chart calculators as long as you have your birth time. One site I recommend is astro-charts com
Once you explore more about your moon sign, see what resonates with you The more you learn about your moon sign, you can explore ways to nurture yourself and your emotions Some questions to ask are: What do I need to feel secure or heard? What do I need to feel emotionally fulfilled and safe? Knowing your moon sign can help you determine where you can heal any wounds, learn how to communicate your needs and even trust your inner guidance
You can even work with the moon as she changes signs every month I like to journal how I am feeling You can try this yourself Try journaling every day for a month and write about how you felt at the end of the day Then you can check which sign the moon was in by utilizing a moon calendar app or even online where you can see where the moon is. I like to use astro.com. This is where the magic is Each sign has its own qualities and gives us opportunities that may inspire our creativity, help us to communicate, or even help us heal
The moon is magical I love knowing I can work with her each month and she always gives me a chance to start over and create even a new beginning on a New Moon And on the Full moon I give her thanks for all the things that have manifested or for the clarity I received in any lessons.
BY DAISY SOUL CHILDLike the moon changes phases, we should too honor our own Recognizing how we feel under the moon helps us connect to ourselves internally, explore what is hidden and even gives us the courage to own and express our individual unique expressions of love.
If you want to know more about the moon or about your moon sign, I have a newsletter on substack where you can get inspiring messages, journal prompts and meditations for your moon sign. You can subscribe to the newsletter here. I hope you get curious about the moon and be a witness to her powerful healing
Igotonaturetobesoothedandhealed, andtohavemysensesputinorder.
JohnBurroughs
As a makeup artist and beauty enthusiast, I have always had a deep passion for all things beauty From skincare routines to hair care products, I find joy in exploring and experimenting with different beauty products. However, if there's one thing that truly captivates me and brings me the most joy, it's makeup.
Makeup, to me, is an art form. It has the power to enhance someone ’ s natural beauty and boost their confidence. As an MUA, I have had the privilege of working with numerous clients and seeing the transformation that makeup can bring. The way a simple swipe of lipstick or a perfectly blended eyeshadow can instantly lift someone's spirits and make them feel beautiful is truly magical
I believe that makeup is not about masking one's appearance, but rather about highlighting and accentuating their best features It is about embracing one's individuality and expressing themselves through different colors and textures. Whether it's a bold red lip for a night out or a natural, glowing look for a daytime event, makeup allows us to be creative and play with different looks.
Every year, there are new makeup trends and techniques that come and go. From dewy skin and bold brows to graphic eyeliner and monochromatic makeup, the beauty industry is constantly evolving. And while I enjoy keeping up with the latest trends and trying out new products, there are some things that never go out of style for me
For me, a classic red lip and a flawless base will always be timeless and chic There is something so empowering about a bold red lip that can instantly elevate any look. And a flawless base, with perfectly blended foundation and concealer, lays the foundation for a beautiful makeup look.
At the end of the day, my love for makeup goes beyond just creating beautiful looks. It is about making others feel confident and empowering them to embrace their unique beauty. As an MUA, I feel fortunate to be able to use my passion and talent to help others feel their best selves
So, whether you're a makeup lover like me or someone who is just starting to dip their toes into the world of beauty, remember that makeup is not just about vanity. It is about self-expression, creativity, and most importantly, feeling beautiful inside and out. And as long as there are people who love to experiment with makeup, there will always be a place for beauty in this world. Signed
These colors can make your eyes pop differently and are a great choice for creating a striking makeup look.
Try Juvias Place
Masquerade Palette
Bright eye shadow has become popular in recent years, with a shift towards earthier jewel tones for a sophisticated look.
Makeup artist Barose recommends using dark eye shadow with undertones like navy, deep green, and plum for a fun and wearable alternative to black or brown shadow and liner.
By Shavon Godbolt
I just read the most exciting Glamour Newsletter about the makeup trends of 2024! Apparently, some classic makeup trends are making a comeback, like highlighter, red lips, and blush! But let's be real, did they ever really leave? I mean, highlighter is always my go-to for that perfect golden glow, while a red lip adds instant glamour and can take a look from day to night in seconds. And who doesn't love a little pop of blush for that romantic, fresh-faced vibe? Can't wait to rock these timeless trends in 2024!
Try these fabulous blushes to add a romantic touch to your cheeks! Consider Juvia’s Place Powder Blush or Rare Beauty Liquid Blush.
In 2024, the makeup trend is predicted to be extra bold, extra dark, and extra vampy, with a focus on goth glam styles. To achieve the desired darkness, the recommendation is to layer and line lips with a black eyeliner pencil as a base coat before applying lipstick.
emphasizes the trend of colorshifting eye shadows and highlighters, celebrating individuality through makeup placement, and achieving a holographic effect with specific eye shadow palettes featuring chrome shades for cyber wet looks.
Danessa Myricks Beauty Infinite Chrome Flakes
MacRubyWooisahitforaredlip ��!
By Shavon Godbolt
Nars Natural Radiant foundation
Loreal infalable Nars concealer
Loreal Glotion
Essence Bronzer Palete A good ole set of Amazon Lashes Kola Lux Lip Liner NYK Butter Gloss
Why Nettle?
Aries is ruled by Mars and Mars governs the blood and blood quality. As the first sign of the Astrological Wheel and a Cardinal (the first sign of a season) sign, Aries get things going, and moving. They get the blood pumping. Nettle provides iron, calcium, magnesium, and other nutrients making it a great remedy for anemia and general weakness. It helps build healthy blood, bones, and joints.
Aries-Fire-Cardinal Initiator Warrior Headstrong
Taurus is ruled by Venus and together they rule the throat. Taurus and Venus love all things sensual. The nervine qualities in rose petals can help relax the throat and body and encourage one to be able to ask for (and receive) the pleasure they desire. As Taurus is the ruler of the vocal cords, the anti-inflammatory qualities of rose are beneficial as they help soothe the throat.
Taurus-Earth-Fixed Comfort Pleasure Home
Gemini is ruled by Mercury and together they rule the nervous system. Gemini energy can be overstimulating and a bit chaotic. As a nervine, lavender helps relieve mental and physical tension by relaxing the nervous system. Its mild analgesic effect makes it useful for easing headaches.
Gemini-Air-Mutable Curious Social Indecisive
Cancer is ruled by The Moon and together they govern the brain. Oats work well for those suffering with irritability, lack of focus, and anxiety. Oats are great for relief of menopausal headaches and ones due to exhaustion, stress, and being overworked.
Cancer-Water-Cardinal Emotional Sensitive Protective
Thereissomething uniquelybeautifulaboutapersonthat growsfromhisorherstrugglesanduses thelessonsfromtheirexperiencesto spreadwisdom. Itdoesn'tmatterwhatyou'vedoneorhow faryoufell.Betheexamplethatshows othersthattheycanovercomethat mountain,too.
MorganRichardOlivier
In my early thirties, I noticed an overwhelming feeling that had always been inside of me but no longer was feeling tended to It was a familiar feeling but I was in a completely different headspace to understand at the time that what I was longing for was permission. Being that I am now well into adulthood, I started to wonder who I was seeking permission from and what it was for There was this pause in my life up until this point where I was waiting for someone to step in and give me special permission to move forward in the next steps or phases of my life that I actually longed for.
From the time we are born we are taught to seek permission to do things throughout our upbringing well into adulthood Some of us live totally different lives growing up where some have to grow up and mature quickly, and others can grow well into their twenties still feeling like a teenager What I've learned from my own experiences however, is that we do not always realize when we are an adult that we do not require permission for most things anymore.
Life's special circumstances do not always allow everyone to mature into adulthood parallel to their chronological age So twenty years of my life experiences, skills, maturity, and adaptation are not always the same as someone else's twenty years
BY JESSICA BANKSSo a lot of what is holding us back as adults in life is that we are still waiting for permission to do so many things that we do not get the opportunity to do it at all or so much later with less opportunity. (NOT saying it can't be done!)
As we grow into adulthood, we are taught to respect professionals or people in authority such as doctors, judges, police officers, lawyers, professors, accountants, government officials, our bosses just to name a few. Often as adults, we are waiting for someone to give us permission and most of the time we will only do it if instructed by a professional
Most adults seek out professionals because that's exactly what we are supposed to use them for but there are so many times where it's because a life situation is too late or in need of a learning opportunity. As for myself, struggling in my thirties, questioning what was appropriate to do for my age, what was necessary, and when to start doing what I thought was age specific to achieving certain milestones
I allowed my mom and other adults invested in my life to guide me and was so busy being obedient that I wasn't independent or ME. In college, I was looking to others older than me (teachers, counselors, seniors) for permission on when/what/how/why for so many things like my major, the classes I took and educational timeline.
BY JESSICA BANKSWhen I first started going to an adult primary care physician and OBGYN, I hung on to their every word without ever questioning it When are the appropriate child bearing years? Do I need to take every vaccine? Should I wait until I'm older to focus on a healthy lifestyle? I felt a ton of pressure from my doctor to do everything they suggested.
My doctors seemed more concerned with my biological clock than my maturity development, overall health, and long term effects My obesity was treated with weight loss drugs instead of a meal plan, realistic guidelines, and a gym membership In hindsight, I wish I would have had enough confidence to give myself permission to move forward within my own permission.
Finding resources for my development was important to me because I did need help. What I found in so much of the advice and instruction I was given was that I already knew these things I just wanted someone else to say “do it” Most times, I was not happy with the way I was instructed to carry out the thing I sought out permission for and that got me thinking who says I need anyone's permission? WHO? I should have given myself PERMISSION so many times.
If I could go back in time, I’d give permission to: 21 year old me to travel and to attend a better college 23 year old me to not allow the pressure of my biological clock to influence me having my babies. 28 year old me to start my business when I had the opportunity instead of waiting to have my back against the wall.
For those reading this, you too do not need permission from anyone but yourself! For the ones that do need the support, just know PERMISSION is yours YOU HAVE IT NOW IN THIS MOMENT!
Whatever age you are, start that new career, buy that house, move out of state, wait till you're ready to have children, or do not have children at all. Chase the dream you abandoned at 16 (now that you're mature), invest your money, gentle parent your children, self care daily, decline unnecessary medical procedures
Lean into anything you feel you have been waiting for permission on!! Waiting for someone else to give you permission is no different than sitting at a bus stop waiting for a bus that will not arrive. You will not always be told, guided, or directed in this life Without your own will, necessary actions, and taking initiative, you will let life pass you by
Never be afraid to lead yourself and take the necessary risks Even if you fail, you will have the opportunity to learn from your mistakes and grow. Know that you have the power to transform your life's experience with the power of PERMISSION When you take the lead, it gives you control
We all have financial priorities, some indulge in big, beautiful homes, nice cars, designer bags, etc , but for me traveling is my thing As a little girl I would never imagine that I would ever travel as I grew older. Coming from a low-income family where vacation for us was a one yearly trip to a water park, but when I tell you we looked forward to that little adventure, even if it was just that one day at the water slides. Adventures and exploring new things always fascinated me as a child and that’s where traveling has become a passion of mine. Not only does traveling make me feel alive again, but it also gives me a deeprooted sense of joy and excitement when I visit an unfamiliar land
One of my greatest accomplishments was taking my daughter to Paris for her 21st birthday Ever since Gianna was a little girl, I always knew she had a childhood lifelong dream of one day going to Paris and being able to give her that experience was life-changing for both of us. It was a mother and daughter trip to remember. We both were astonished as we walked around and admired the curvy streets, beautiful architecture, and charming cafes that left the city air filled with its delicious aromas from the freshly baked pastries.
On our first day we had tickets to see Moulin Rouge. It was a spectacular Parisian cabaret show which was a perfect start to our trip. Our second day there we were able to “freeze time and capture memories that will last a lifetime”. I booked my daughter a 21st birthday photo shoot that would capture her beauty in front of the Eiffel Tower and a few mother daughter photos. It was extremely chilly, and the sun had just risen, but the cold air did not get in the way, as my heart was pounding with excitement as I saw my beautiful girl in that big red gorgeous dress
We visited the Louvre Museum, which was once a royal residence for many French royals Now you will see French paintings, sculptures, and archaeological findings. We were able to see Leonardo Da Vinci’s famous Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo statue, the Winged Victory of Samothrace and many more.
Next, we got to experience the Eiffel Tower Summit Tour in which an elevator took us up to the highest observation deck in Paris. It was 906 feet from the ground sensational view of the city. We also enjoyed a Seine Cruise; we took the Vedettes du Pont Neuf. We were able to see major landmarks with an audio covering both Parisian and French history Make sure to go early so you can get a spot on the upper deck so you're able to get a clear view of the Eiffel Tower It took our breath away as we saw how beautiful the Eiffel Tower looked at night as it lit up and sparkled.
We also visited the Arc de Triomphe, Jardín du Luxembourg and the Pantheon. Our last night in Paris we went to a jazz club called Caveau de la Huchette which I highly recommended and it was a perfect ending to our trip as we saw people laughing and dancing with the locals and having the time of their lives
“Thebestthingsinlifearethe peoplewelove,theplaceswe've been,andthememorieswe've madealongtheway.” –Anonymous
Life is constantly changing Our bodies and priorities change, meaning how we spend our time also has to change During my younger days, in my pre-motherhood era, self-care was easy I had the time and resources to take yoga classes and retreats regularly. Let's say not so much during this season of my life, my solo-motherhood era. The demands on my time and finances have increased. Gone are the days of going to long yoga classes during my abundant free time, followed by a slow walk through Central Park before catching the subway to Harlem. Or using my PTO for solo travel to a wellness or yoga retreat.
My yoga and self-care journey is not only about pampering myself. I discovered yoga and developed a dedicated practice during a moment of extreme despair. My mother was losing her battle with metastatic breast cancer, and I was going through a breakup with my boyfriend of five years. It was a lot to handle, which led me to seek out healthy coping mechanisms. This challenging chapter led me to explore the power of movement, breath, and union. It became a significant part of my life, my self-care routine, and even a place of joy.
BY CLAIRE JULIANFast forward to my present-day needs and capabilities I still need to take time to care for myself, but I don't have the same flexibility. I've realized that I just need to start exactly where I am.
My practice has to change because everything else has Although I no longer have an extra 90 minutes to indulge in an instructor-led practice, I can give myself a few slowconscious sun salutations (Surya Namaskar), I can breathe deeply in a deep squat (malasana), and open my heart in a camel (ustrasana), before closing in some variation of butterfly pose (baddha konasana)
Sometimes, I only have time for one or two postures, but once I start, I want more and I'm reminded to slow down, merge my breath with movement, and be fully present. During these moments, I become more aware of the tension in my body and release it with every exhale And then there are days when I just breathe with awareness as I drop my daughter off to kindergarten It might not look like much from the outside, but the important thing is that I'm showing up and committed to returning to my practice
You can’t really be present for the people in your life if you aren’t taking care of yourself.
—Kerry Washington
Have you ever waited until you were either not physically feeling well or feeling emotionally debilitated before you pause or take a break? Listen to your body when it says, “hey, time out, I’m overloaded ” Do you often find yourself juggling multiple roles in life and doing so masterfully? At least outwardly, so it would appear. However, internally you feel as if it’s an overwhelmingly daunting task and you are hanging by a thin piece of thread Guess what? I too have been there The culmination of the above described events will ultimately transcend into what is known as ‘burnout’
We all tend to have different coping mechanisms in tackling burnout. There are individuals who can identify and communicate with others who might be deemed as instrumental in assisting with managing burnout Others, and I’m no exception, may have quite a challenging time The strict Jamaican culture from which I spring, represents the genesis of the challenge. The messages I received was “I should do it all.” I saw my mother, who was the sole provider, manage all the responsibilities of the family
Just like my maternal grandmother, she was a master economist who supplied all my needs on a very meager income, prepared meals every day, a disciplinarian who accepted nothing less than my best effort and among so many other attributes, a loving and caring mother. As I grew, I adapted to those very principles. Until I learnt just how challenging and unrealistic it can be. This was, however, the norm in my family A norm that allowed no time for the self I was consumed with doing what others deemed important and satisfying a cultural norm When I became a parent, I realized it was time to change that cultural norm. A generational curse that robbed the women of even the semblance of a happy life. I wanted to change the cultural messages my child and future children would receive
By Kaymara Gayle, LCSW
I would love to report that after such enlightenment, I developed healthy and appropriate boundaries. Nope!! Those cultural messages of “ you can do it all” became embedded in my thought process I had to graduate from people pleasing and entered survival mode I had to learn how to listen to my body and honor it when I felt symptoms of the dreaded burn out
I have learned not listening to my body was unhealthy and we do ourselves a disservice when we continue in survival mode Do you know what unhealthy self-talk when you are feeling overwhelmed looks like? Here is an example coaching yourself saying “push through” or “I just need to get through this next task”. I know it sounds innocent and it can be when you are not experiencing symptoms of burn out.
Have you ever stopped and thought to yourself “what about my needs”? Even though you may feel beaten up dealing with the pressures and responsibilities of life please remember to be gentle with yourself As a License Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist, I have been there and worked with others on how to listen to their bodies and show up for themselves
A common presenting problem I often hear is, “How can I take a break when I have work, children, family, spouse, significant other, career or pets that require my time and attention.”
I simply say “give yourself permission ” We often ask and give others permission Now it is time for us to give ourselves permission
What does that look like? I am glad you asked. If you are a parent with a toddler, single or married, and the toddlers make a mess and you know once you clean it up, they will go back to making a mess. However, you like a tidy and clean space
Guess what? If it is not a safety hazard It can be tackled tomorrow
By Kaymara Gayle, LCSW
Give yourself permission Positive self-talk: My kiddos love to play and instead of frustrating myself and I already have had a long day. I give myself permission “to be ok with leaving the toys on the floor.” Use that energy to take a moment and check in with yourself
Have you ever thought about how much better you can be present for self and loved ones when you give yourself what you need? It is like the instructions the flight attendants give us when they are demonstrating safety methods “Put your oxygen mask on first” I know it can be a foreign concept to even think about taking care of yourself
Step 1) Give yourself permission to be ok with your decision not to continue with your routine when having feelings of burn out.
Step 2) “Its ok not to feel or be ok, but I will be ” It is subtle but profound It allows you to validate your present emotional state and while allowing yourself to see a window of hope
Step 3) Practicing deep breathing – deep breathing enables more air to enter your body and calm your nerves.
Resource: video demonstrating deep breathing https://www youtube com/watch? v=K353fkHYMPs
Benefits of deep breathing also reduces blood pressure, anxiety, improve breathing, Improved sleep, digestion, reduced stress, decreased pain, improve quality of life and Improved circulation
LittleLionHandcrafts
Words!
Words can be spoken through our mouths and rehearsed in our minds
Words can be heard
Words can be received
Words can be written and read
Words can give us perspective
Words can heal! and
Words can also hurt!
What are the WORDS consuming you?
It’s springtime and what better time to declutter and do a little spring cleaning Not just the house and wardrobe spring cleaning but the cleaning up of our affirmations and conversations we've been engaging in with others and having with ourselves. I want to invite you to take inventory of the words you are choosing, the words you are consuming because they are shaping your life Our words hold power! Like spring we want to grow beautiful gardens and brighten up our words I’ve gathered and placed a collection of quotes throughout the magazine
So, please take them as you need them Some are quotes inspired by the articles and conversation started by our other founders and content contributors and some are quoted from treasured books I've read. All have directly impacted me and my commitment to personal development (the lifelong process of increasing self-awareness, acquiring new skills and actively pursuing continual improvement) and personal growth (benefit of the actions-goal) I hope you'll find some to inspire you and adapt to your way of thinking
Grow and Enjoy!��
♥Alysia
Keeponlythosethingsthatspeakto yourheart.Thentaketheplunge anddiscardalltherest.
MarieKondo
By Kayla Cordero
Embark on a journey of self-discovery with Spiritscopes – not your average horoscope, but divine messages channeled by me from Spirit Spirit can be interpreted in many ways, depending on who you are talking to. For me and the purpose of this publication, Spirit is the divine essence of goodness on an energetic level. Each revelation I share here is a beacon of inspiration, inviting you to delve deeper within yourself, to unearth truths, and to embrace the essence of your being. Whether you seek guidance, motivation, or simply a moment of reflection, let these celestial whispers be your compass Take what resonates, leave what doesn't, and allow the wisdom of your own intuition to illuminate your path forward I encourage you to check your rising sign for guidance, your moon sign for an internal check in and your sun sign for motivation If you are reading this and don’t know how to check your sun, moon, or rising sign, you can check google calculators or go here
Move your body. It’s time to alchemize your passion into profit. You are a rising star. Do not be afraid if you have been told you are too much, too loud, to this or that. Your superpower is your heart You feel things deeply and haven’t always known how to express it in a way that is purposeful and propels you forward Dancing in circles is what I just saw It’s time to assume a different position Shift gears Get quiet and methodical about your goals Getting quiet doesn’t mean being silenced It means to listen to the nudges of your body’s messages Don’t forget to check out the article, Burnout is Real You have an incredible inner gps that you may not utilize often. Be open to doing things a certain way. This energetic year is a year of acceptance of self. What are the deepest parts of you that have been kept hidden in fear of persecution. Ooh as I write that - it feels rough. It feels like a lot. You have been carrying around some fears that are no longer containable. Use your inner fire to cleanse yourself of any limiting beliefs you have around what you are meant for Write a book Even if it is not published The work you do on yourself this year is very personal to you, for you by you It does not need to be shared with anyone The internal work you do will naturally exude in your glow Your aura is bright Honor that
By Kayla Cordero
This new energetic year is calling you to be F E A R L E S S There is no more prepping No more planning This is a time to deeply connect with your truth and have faith in your ability to overcome anything that gets in the way of your goals This is also a great time for you to hold space for others. I see you stepping up in a big way. I see you inside a circle, speaking, sharing, connecting. This is very liberating for you. This year you have a lot of breakthroughs that lead to major success. You get to define what success means to you. What makes you feel safe? How can you leap forward while creating safety for yourself? Hold your vision and feel into it Speak it Claim it It’s already yours Questioning yourself will only lead to more questions You have all of the answers you seek Go Check out the article, Living a Life full of Adventure & Love for some motivation
This is the year you say F it Ooh spicy You’re about to use your powers of communication to ignite things in others I see you sharing your gifts and inspiring others This is a different type of leadership ever seen. You have the opportunity to be a vibrant leader leading by action. What this means is you won’t need to tell people what to do to ignite a shift. By doing your own inner healing, this could be finally seeking therapy or using a tool you have been curious about for years but never pursued to aid you in your own healing, you will inspires others to do the same You might be sharing stories of your own experiences and how you overcame them in a way that speaks to people who never felt connected before You have the ability to give the gift of being seen and heard This is really beautiful, Gemini Sometimes, you can get in your own head about what you are meant to do Stop thinking and more being Stop thinking and more feeling Stop thinking and more writing Writing is really important for you to get release things on a spiritual level. If you ’ ve been holding onto something, try doing a burning ritual (safely) by simply writing out the thing you want to release and then burn it while thanking it for coming into your life. Because without it present in your life, you would not have learned what you needed to move forward with peace in your heart
By Kayla Cordero
Purpose and Planning
This season is inviting you to go deep within yourself and pull from your higher self Connect with the future version of yourself What are the messages they are giving you? Is there a theme you have been experiencing that is worth taking another look at? Any recurring patterns are meant to mirror to you what is within and needs to come out YOU are the key to your healing Everything you imagine for yourself is present within you Shifting some perspective may be needed. Make sure you read the article, The Moon and You to dive a little deeper. You are such a nurturer for everyone around you. It is time to nurture YOU. Your inner child is yearning for some attention. Go back to see the why and look forward for the how Your inner child and future self want to connect with you Things don’t need to take longer than you think to start moving in the direction you desire You are being called to think differently Honor your feelings
You don’t have to do it alll alone I know you ’ re used to it or perhaps had to figure it all out on your own It’s time to call up the jungle for a community circle to support you with whatever it is you need You have your own jungle of people who are ready and willing to roar with you Tap on them Sometimes, people see you as super strong or independent and not know the lion also needs tending to No need to be brave anymore You can let it loose Whatever pent up emotions you have about a certain situation weighing heavy on you, it is not only okay to share the burden, it is vital to your heart health. Try a heart chakra and throat meditation. Learn more about herbs and astrology and how they can support your wellness routine Also, move your bodyyyy Let loose and have some fun It’s been a while
By Kayla Cordero
This season is calling you to pull up that rebel within you Color outside the lines I know you are used to doing things a certain way. It’s okay for you to switch it up every now and then. In fact, the angels are calling you to experiment with doing things in a different way. You may have wanted to try something new for a while. Now is that time. Shake things up. I see a purging of some sort for you This could be decluttering your home or energetically cutting chords with people who no longer align with the vision you have for your life It could also be a physical purge and starting a new routine that will support this new, bold chapter Give yourself the permission you need Re(read) the article, Permission Slip Remeber who you are and what you have overcome The key to quieting the chaos inside you is to listen to what is being said and then take action from your heart Logic will get you so far Learning to trust your intuition is so so important for you to be in your magic. See Virgo, you have the brains but you also have a powerful gut instinct. Practice listening to your intuition. This next chapter is a fresh start. You got this, boo.
It’s time for you to embrace being the star that you are No more hiding No more halfsie mentality This is a year of courage for you Courage to do the thing Say the thing Be exactly who you are without hesitation. I understand you have experienced things that make you wanna run into your little shell or try to keep the peace. Whose peace is more important. It’s time to call up the goddess Venus. Where she at? Value value value. Use your value system as your GPS to making decisions Your voice matters Ask yourself, does this align with my values? If it does, go at full speed If it doesn’t feel right, it ain’t right Don’t look around you Look in front of the mirror cause she knows Libra, I see you on the beach sipping some water with lemon I see you in your health and wellness era Ooh I love it The key to zen vibes is telling all to F off Very similar to Gemini scope of saying F it Taking ownership of your desires is so beautiful When you do this, you give others around you permission to do the same It might be time for a solo trip for some soul searching. Spoiler alert: you will find that your soul was what you needed and with you all along. But you can’t skip steps on the journey. You may know the things. You’re very cerebral. It’s time to feel into some things you have been letting simmer within. I am laughing because I just saw that you will need or receive a big splash of COLD water What this tells me is that you are on a path of an awakening Awakening to parts of you that are coming together and finally feeling whole Don’t forget to tap into the beauty articles for some inspo to revamp your beauty look
By Kayla Cordero
You can get through anything and everything. And using your experience to transform your whole world and those around you. That is your power. It’s okay not to know all the things. This new energetic year is calling you to lean into your circle. Spread your love in a community that gets you When you serve with love, you will receive in return It’s time Have funnnnn I see you flowing, giggling, being light hearted You need it It’s been a time This is your time to be light and allow yourself to be held Allow yourself to laugh and break free from any stories you have held onto so tightly It’s time to write a new book Give yourself that clean slate This could be the year you deepen the connections with your loved ones Say the things and most importantly, listen to what’s being said and listen to what’s not being said. Allow your truth to guide you towards your deepest desires. I see marriage for some of you. Or a renewal of vows. This could be with a partnership or it could be with yourself. This is a season of healing for you.
Don’t waste time chasing ghosts Give your free spirit permission to run free to want what you ’ ve been wanting for a long time Things do not need to be or look a certain way just cause others do it that way You know this You have always lead your own way Now, you are breaking free from the internal cage you have put yourself in and to allow that wisdom to fully shine. This energetic new year brings a breath of fresh air. I see you putting down roots. Make sure where you decide to commit to is where you want to be. Alignment, intention and blessings. I am smiling so big for you. You have so much beautiful wisdom to share with the world. Now is your time. Grab some amethyst - purple is your power color this season. Maybe it’s knowing that your intuition was right all along You are beginning to see what others have always seen Your courage is shining through Do some mirror work with affirmation to solidify this knowing
By Kayla Cordero
Call on your people this year You tend to be the cool, calm, and collected person in your crew This new energetic year will be asking you to shake it, don’t break it If you know, you know And if you don’t, pull up a chair and lemme tell you Healing is your calling You are pretty good at everything you do And this is because sometimes you can be so hard on yourself and you won’t allow yourself to quit This year, give yourself permission to quit Quit the crap that is not fitting Shake your whole life up - what sticks is meant for you and what leaves - know that everything has a purpose. Let your hair loose. I see you doing some yoga. Read the article, Just Breathe for some inspo. You will have some opportunities to get out of your comfort zone and stretch you. Remember, comfort is key but so is liberty. Liberate yourself from stagnant energy by saying yes to things you wouldn’t normally While still using your gift of discernment, say yes just cause It’s the little things that will make great difference to you Some of the things you cared so deeply about, you may find are not that significant Like libra, I am also hearing values Your value system needs assessment I am not saying your values may change I am saying how you carry out those values in your life may look different I see a whole lifestyle makeover Nothing but improvements.
Breathe Rinse Breathe Repeat I want you to get up right now, yes now and put on some music and shake your booty. Shake whatever needs shaking… I will wait…How does that feel? You have been through it and this new energetic year calls for some lightheartedness. Giving yourself (and those around you) grace is not a luxury at this point in your life. It is vital to your well-being Knowing that even when you or someone else doesn’t get it right - it’s not only alright It’s inevitable When you come to this acceptance, you will feel so much lighter You hold the world and yourself at high standards Why not? You think differently than most That is a superpower Taking a look at your expectations and standards will be key for you this year What are the standards you have for yourself and how can you create more space for expansion? Some expectations can be limiting There is soooo much out there waiting for you Things so much bigger than you even imagined. I see you needing to have a heart to heart with your future self. What messages do they have for you? Find a guided meditation or if you ’ re reading this and feel called to it, I can create a custom meditation just for you.
By Kayla Cordero
Call on your people this year You tend to be the cool, calm, and collected person in your crew This new energetic year will be asking you to shake it, don’t break it If you know, you know And if you don’t, pull up a chair and lemme tell you Healing is your calling You are pretty good at everything you do And this is because sometimes you can be so hard on yourself and you won’t allow yourself to quit This year, give yourself permission to quit Quit the crap that is not fitting Shake your whole life up - what sticks is meant for you and what leaves - know that everything has a purpose. Let your hair loose. I see you doing some yoga. Read the article, Just Breathe for some inspo. You will have some opportunities to get out of your comfort zone and stretch you. Remember, comfort is key but so is liberty. Liberate yourself from stagnant energy by saying yes to things you wouldn’t normally While still using your gift of discernment, say yes just cause It’s the little things that will make great difference to you Some of the things you cared so deeply about, you may find are not that significant Like libra, I am also hearing values Your value system needs assessment I am not saying your values may change I am saying how you carry out those values in your life may look different I see a whole lifestyle makeover Nothing but improvements.
